2 teens charged in death of dog

CHICAGO — Two Chicago teens admitted to police that they chained a pit bull to a fence, doused it in flammable liquid, and set the dog ablaze, prosecutors said in separate court hearings Thursday.

Dijon Fisher, 18, of the 7000 block of South Cregier Avenue, who helped soak the dog with lighter fluid, was charged with felony animal abuse, and a 16-year-old boy who lit the match was charged as a juvenile with animal torture and aggravated animal cruelty, prosecutors said.

Assistant State's Atty. Jessica Hegarty called the act one of "inhumane cruelty." It happened Aug. 11 in the 7200 block of South Oakley Avenue.

The dog was badly burned and had to be euthanized.

A judge ordered Fisher held on a $100,000 bond. If convicted, Fisher could face 2 to 5 years in prison or probation. The 16-year-old faces up to 5 years' probation and 30 days in a juvenile detention center.

Another boy led police to the suspects, prosecutors said. Authorities would not speculate on what prompted the teens to set the dog on fire.